Congo Bars

These indulgent Congo Bars are thick, chewy, and loaded with chocolate in every bite. A generous amount of brown sugar gives them a rich caramel-like flavor, while softened butter creates a tender, buttery texture. Semi-sweet chocolate chunks and milk chocolate chips melt throughout the bars, leaving you with a soft, fudgy center and lightly golden edges.

Ingredients

For the Batter

• 1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter
• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour

For Flavor and Texture

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Chocolate

• 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chunks
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips

Directions

1. Prepare the Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang along the sides. Lightly grease the parchment and any uncovered areas of the pan.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

Place the softened butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes, until the mixture becomes creamy, smooth, and slightly fluffy.

3. Add the Eggs and Seasonings

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Blend in the vanilla, baking powder, and salt until the mixture is smooth and evenly incorporated.

4. Incorporate the Flour and Chocolate

Lower the mixer speed and gradually add the flour. Mix just until the batter comes together and no visible streaks of flour remain. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chunks and milk chocolate chips with a spatula.

5. Bake

Spread the thick batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the center has set while remaining soft.

6. Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool in the pan for several minutes. Use the parchment overhang to carefully lift them from the pan and transfer them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Serve these rich, chocolate-packed bars on their own or alongside a cold glass of milk.